Chemical waste in UP river takes toll of aquatic life

Moradabad (Uttar Pradesh), Aug.19 (ANI): A large number of dead fish have been found floating on the banks of the Ramganga River in Uttar Pradesh's Moradabad District, due to the dumping of chemical waste from nearby industries.

It is believed that the cause of the death of fish was lack of oxygen and the presence of an oily slick in the water of the river.

Locals complained of the administration's failure to take any action against the factory owners, and said the drainage of toxic chemicals and other waste materials into the river has become a regular practice.

"The fishes die due to the chemical waste thrown in the river and float on the surface of the river. We catch these fishes. Many fishes, turtles, snakes all die due to the poisonous water," said a fisherman, Ram Gopal.

People and animals cannot consume the water of the river as it was adulterated and locals suffered from various ailments.

"Poisonous water is discharged in the Ramganga river from the near by mills and factories, which is taking toll on fishes and spreading diseases. The birds and animals are unable to drink this water," said Suhas Kumar, another resident.

Due to the continuous decline in the number of fishes in the river, the fishermen are also facing problems to earn their livelihood.

In recent years, the waste from various factories and industries adversely affected the health of human beings and bio-diversity across India. The rivers have turned grossly polluted. (ANI)